Are You Getting the Credit You Deserve?

Voice over actors are notoriously undervalued in the entertainment industry. While it’s easy to understand why - people don’t see us, therefore, we are less important - that doesn’t make it okay. Most of us work incredibly hard, devoting tons of time, energy, and money toward our careers. Sure, we’re compensated (and sometimes handsomely) for all our efforts, but we’re not always given the shout-out we deserve, which is just as important as payment. Allow me to elaborate…

When you watch a movie, what usually happens before the film even begins? That’s right, the stars and director are usually credited. And then after the film ends, they’re credited again, along with everyone that helped make the movie, right down to the caterers who brought in food for everyone.

But what about voice over actors who are contributing to things like radio ads, or promotional or instructional videos? A credit line isn’t always given. Yes, there have been instances where my VO work has been credited, but there have also been plenty of times where it hasn’t. And this needs to change.

We voice actors play a critical role in the entertainment business as a whole, as well as in plenty of other non-entertainment capacities. This role deserves recognition, and it should be our duty to ourselves and other voice professionals to insist on credit being given where it’s due. Not only is it just the right thing to do, it’s also a great PR move for us as actors. It’s one more opportunity for you to get your name out there for others to see.

So here’s what I do. I request a credit line wherever it’s appropriate. I’m not going to overlook it (something I’ve been guilty of in the past), and I include it as part of my agreement with my clients. I challenge you to do the same - not just for yourself, but for all the VO actors out there who are as deserving of that credit as anyone. We’re more than just a voice - we are unique talents that contribute in crucial ways to a much bigger industry. 

I've elaborated on this subject in an earlier article, "Are You Getting Credit Where Credit's Due?"
(http://tinyurl.com/hmdeap8) Hope you'll read or reread it for clarity's sake.